What To Know
- The Fiesta’s front end features a hexagonal grille and stylish headlamps, while the rear is highlighted by a diffuser and a single exhaust pipe.
- While the Fiesta may not be as powerful as the Dart, it offers excellent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.
- The Fiesta’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 29 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, compared to the Dart’s 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to compact cars, the Dodge Dart and Ford Fiesta stand out as two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a combination of style, performance, and affordability, making them popular choices for budget-conscious consumers. However, each car has its unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Dodge Dart and Ford Fiesta, helping you determine which one is the right fit for your needs.
Exterior Design
The Dodge Dart exudes a bold and aggressive stance with its muscular lines and sharp angles. Its front fascia features a prominent grille that is flanked by sleek LED headlights. The rear of the vehicle is equally striking, with a diffuser and dual exhaust pipes. In contrast, the Ford Fiesta presents a more understated and elegant exterior. Its rounded contours and flowing lines give it a sporty yet sophisticated appearance. The Fiesta’s front end features a hexagonal grille and stylish headlamps, while the rear is highlighted by a diffuser and a single exhaust pipe.
Interior Comfort
Inside the Dodge Dart, you’ll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The dashboard features a user-friendly layout with intuitive controls. The Ford Fiesta, on the other hand, offers a more compact interior. While the seats are still comfortable, they may feel cramped for taller individuals. The dashboard has a clean and modern design, but some controls can be difficult to reach while driving.
Performance
Under the hood, the Dodge Dart is powered by a variety of engine options, including a 2.0-liter inline-four, a 2.4-liter inline-four, and a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir inline-four. The base engine produces 160 horsepower, while the top-of-the-line Tigershark engine generates 184 horsepower. The Ford Fiesta, on the other hand, is equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that produces 120 horsepower. While the Fiesta may not be as powerful as the Dart, it offers excellent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.
Handling
The Dodge Dart offers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It handles corners with confidence, providing a balanced and responsive driving experience. The Ford Fiesta, on the other hand, is known for its agile handling and nimble maneuverability. It feels particularly at home in urban environments, where its small size and tight turning radius come in handy.
Fuel Economy
As mentioned earlier, the Ford Fiesta has a significant advantage over the Dodge Dart in terms of fuel economy. The Fiesta’s 1.6-liter engine is more efficient than the Dart’s larger engines, resulting in lower fuel consumption. The Fiesta’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 29 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, compared to the Dart’s 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Safety
Both the Dodge Dart and Ford Fiesta have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Dart received a five-star overall safety rating, while the Fiesta received a four-star overall safety rating. Both vehicles come standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
Price
The Dodge Dart has a starting MSRP of $19,995, while the Ford Fiesta has a starting MSRP of $15,940. The Dart offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which can increase the price. However, the Fiesta’s lower starting price makes it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
“Decisive Verdict”
After carefully comparing the Dodge Dart and Ford Fiesta, it becomes clear that both vehicles have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Dart offers a more powerful engine lineup, a spacious interior, and a bold exterior design. The Fiesta, on the other hand, excels in terms of fuel economy, agile handling, and a lower price point. Ultimately, the best choice between the two will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and a spacious interior, the Dodge Dart is a solid choice. If you value fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and affordability, the Ford Fiesta is an excellent option.
FAQ
1. Which car has a more powerful engine?
The Dodge Dart offers a more powerful engine lineup, with the top-of-the-line Tigershark engine producing 184 horsepower.
2. Which car has a more spacious interior?
The Dodge Dart has a more spacious interior, with more legroom and headroom than the Ford Fiesta.
3. Which car has a lower starting price?
The Ford Fiesta has a lower starting MSRP than the Dodge Dart.
4. Which car has better fuel economy?
The Ford Fiesta has significantly better fuel economy than the Dodge Dart, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.
5. Which car has a higher safety rating?
Both the Dodge Dart and Ford Fiesta have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA. The Dart received a five-star overall safety rating, while the Fiesta received a four-star overall safety rating.